After another intense year, we’re probably all looking forward to pausing and rejuvenating this festive season. So, here are some holistic detoxing tips from the experts, to help you reset before ringing in 2024.
Prioritise your mental detox
The past year has been a rollercoaster of emotions for many. Just like regularly decluttering the home, decluttering your mind can help make space for new ideas to come in. This interesting article from Forbes suggests some practical steps for refocusing, including committing to protecting your mental space as much as you do anything else that matters.
Importantly, this may also mean taking a break from social media. In this age of hyperconnectivity, mindless scrolling can easily consume hours of your day, and sometimes leading to a sense of dissatisfaction. Time to set boundaries?
Opt for nutritional foods
Our body is a reflection of what we eat. But instead of drastic diet changes, you can take some small steps to shift towards more natural, whole foods. The Heart Research Institute NZ shared ’10 healthy food hacks for summer’, which include making vegetables easy, making your own muesli, and cooking healthy carbohydrate sources in bulk.
Opting for nutritional foods not only helps in maintaining a balanced diet, but also ensures that you’re feeding your body the right nutrients to thrive.
Engaging in physical activity
Experts are divided as to whether exercising actually helps detoxify your body. But it’s scientifically proven that working out helps reduce stress, which is all anyone wants when taking a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
This article from Harvard Medical School explains that regular aerobic exercise can bring remarkable changes to your spirits. Why? There are several explanations. For example, we know that exercise reduces the level of stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, while producing endorphins (natural pain killers and mood boosters). Plus, it can go a long way in improving your self-confidence.
Get enough sleep and rest
As the year wraps up, you might feel relieved that you don’t have to jolt awake to the sound of an alarm for a few days – unless, of course, kids or other events have other plans for you!
That said, the holiday season can be a great time to catch up on rest. The National Sleep Foundation recommends sleeping at least 7 to 9 hours a night for adults up to age 65, and 7-8 hours for those over 65. But remember, it’s not just about the quantity of sleep, but the quality as well.
Embrace nature
Probably we don’t even need to tell you this (chances are you’re already slipping into your jandals, headed to the beach), but spending time in nature can be deeply rejuvenating for both the mind and body.
Whether you’re listening to the rhythmic crash of waves, feeling the grass beneath your feet, or simply breathing in some fresh air, the natural world has a unique way of grounding us. So, make the most of our country’s natural beauty and let it become a vital part of your end-of-year detox.
Nurture social connections
Finally, let’s not forget about the benefits of reconnecting with loved ones, spending quality time, or even forging new connections in reducing stress and improving overall well-being. The Mental Health Foundation has some great tips for more positive interactions with family, friends, colleagues, and neighbours – not just during the holidays but all year round.
Enjoy your time off!
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Disclaimer: Please note that the content provided in this article is intended as an overview and as general information only. While care is taken to ensure accuracy and reliability, the information provided is subject to continuous change and may not reflect current developments or address your situation. Before making any decisions based on the information provided in this article, please use your discretion and seek independent guidance.
